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modular,
modernist... say what?

At
fabprefab we use broad definitions for the sake of simplicity (and
at the risk of ambiguity). Our goal is to be as jargon-free as possible.
If you have suggestions for definitions or clarifications please let
us know.

The
following diagram is intended to give an overview of the framework
we use.

*mobile
home is a technical term for a structure that was constructed before
June 15, 1976 and meets certain criteria defined by the United States
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Regulations distinguish
a “mobile home” from a “HUD-code manufactured home”
which is a structure constructed on or after June 15, 1976 and meeting
slightly different criteria than a "mobile home". "mobile
home" is frequently used in the vernacular, even by HUD who often
refer to "manufactured (mobile) homes". Further info here.
Info credit: Kevin Dickson.

prefab
= prefabricated
This term is wide open to interpretation.
prefab home = "kit home" = "panelized home" =
"pre-cut home" = on-site assembly from prefab components.
The components are either generally available when the structure is
designed or they are created specifically for the project (i.e. designed
for reproduction)

modernist
= espousing the ideals and aesthetics of Modernism
We use "modernist" as opposed to "modern" because
"modern" = "contemporary"
"modernist" refers to a particular style of architecture
which is influenced (to varying degrees) by the work of Bauhaus and
International Style.This is a tricky definition because it can imply
reverence for some of the most brutal work of the 20th Century. fabprefab
is focussed on single-family dwellings and therefore embraces elements
of the "modernist" philosophy and form.

Quonset
Hut - a prefabricated hut of corrugated iron having a semicircular
cross section. Quonset was originally a US military term derived from
the location where the hut was developed (Quonset, Rhode Island).
The British synonym is Nissen hut. Sources: hyperdictionary.com,
wordreference.com